WorldSkills - Skill Water Technology

Wastewater is one of the most common results of human water usage. As the interest in water increases overall, the amount of wastewater and its pollution grows globally. With the exception of highly industrial countries, wastewater is led directly back into the environment without proper treatment. As a result, human health, economic strength, the quality of freshwater resources and ecosystems are endangered.

Wastewater: Global trends

(Source: world water report of the United Nations 2017)
Countries with a high per capita income treat approximately 70 percent of their industrial communal wastewater. Countries with an income within the upper average range treat 38 percent of their wastewater. Countries, with revenue within the lower average range, treat 28 percent. Countries which have a low average income treat 8 percent of their water, only. These estimations support the thesis, according which more than 80 percent of wastewater is led back into the environment without further treatment. Countries, with a high income, mainly treat their water with progressive technologies to maintain the environment on one hand and, in case of water shortage, have alternative water supply on the other hand. However, globally it currently is the standard procedure to keep water untreated. This particular goes for developing countries, which miss out on infrastructures, technical and institutional capacities, as well as public finances.

What do water technicians do?

Water technicians monitor, assess, maintain and repair water infrastructure - infrastructure that serves people, industry, agriculture, ecology and energy production. Water technicians also prevent urban and rural areas from being flooded. They monitor water in emergencies such as floods and droughts.

Where do water technicians operate?

Water technicians operate water facilities and water supply systems. They carry out domestic connections for water supply and sewage disposal. They also work in sewers, sewer systems, wastewater treatment plants and sludge treatment plants.

They may work for industrial and agricultural water users to ensure that water is produced in the quality and quantity needed and that it is returned to nature in good quality. 

What do water technicians need to know?

Water technicians need to understand ecological systems, especially the water cycle. They must have mechanical, biological and chemical skills to ensure proper water and wastewater treatment. They must also have interpersonal skills such as communication, teamwork and stress tolerance.

What are the responsibilities of water technicians?

Water technicians are able to maintain pumps, repair water leaks and water meters. They conduct daily tasks such as measuring water flow and water quality. They also evaluate control systems and perform standardized electrical repairs. They are able to handle measuring devices such as sensors and photometers.

Additionally, water technicians are trained for emergency situations such as unexpected pollution, rainwater, floods and droughts.